Despite tough first half, FCD just six points out of playoff spot

Despite tough first half, FCD just six points out of playoff spot

There’s no doubt the first half of the 2012 MLS season has been rough for FC Dallas. But despite everything the squad has endured, they are currently just six points out of the last playoff spot in the West (Colorado in 5th place with 19 points).

It’s a point not lost on Schellas Hyndman as the team begins a three-game homestand this Saturday against Chivas USA – a fellow Western Conference squad battling to get the final spot.

“The last playoff spot is still not secure,” Hyndman said. “LA is picking it up, I would expect Portland to pick it up, Chivas and ourselves. Colorado is trying to hold on.”

FC Dallas has 13 points at the moment. Chivas USA has 18 points after its win over Montreal on Wednesday night. An FCD win on Saturday is essentially a six-point swing, with FCD moving up and Chivas USA remaining static.

“What you are starting to see now is if you can get yourself into a good run now, this is where it all makes a difference,” Hyndman said.

Of FC Dallas’ remaining 18 matches this season, just one – July 4 vs Toronto – is against an Eastern Conference team. That means plenty of opportunities to gain – or lose – ground in the standings against West teams.

“If we can get back into our first team either on the field or on the bench, I think we can make a realistic run here in the second part of the season,” Hyndman said.